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Creative Ways to Reuse Old Metal Colanders

Old metal colanders can be found in antique stores, at flea markets and on dusty cabinet shelves. Innovative lids with built-in strainers and heat-resistant plastic have taken their place. They are still worth saving and using, but not necessarily for their intended purpose. If you have an enamel or bare metal colander or two, pull them out of storage. Consider these creative ways to reuse and repurpose your vintage strainers, and give them a new purpose in and around the home.

Design a Stylish and Eye-Catching New Light Shade

One of the most popular ways to reuse old metal colanders is also one of the most creative and stylish. If your eat-in kitchen is decorated with vintage style, it would look fantastic hanging above the dining table and surrounding a source of light. Find one in excellent condition, and drill a hole of the appropriate size in the center. Use it in place of the existing light shade. The light will filter through the holes and cast a unique pattern on nearby walls and decor. Your cast metal globe can look as phenomenal as those in the photos. Best of all, it will cost a lot less than a brand new shade from a retail store.

Use Old Metal Colanders as Outdoor Planters

If you love unique outdoor planters, add something new to your current display. Line a few old colanders with large coffee filters, and fill them with rich organic soil. Plant herbs or small flowering plants in the lined containers. They will provide fantastic drainage and lots of growing room for new roots. The colanders will add a touch of vintage style to your porch, deck or patio arrangement.

Reuse it to Guide Yarn While Crocheting or Knitting

It is not necessary to buy a special yarn holder for crocheting or knitting. An old metal colander will work just as well, and it will add old-fashioned charm to your decorating scheme. Place one, two or even three balls of yarn in the strainer, and thread it through the larger holes. It will not become hopelessly tangled, and it will not end up on the floor.

Keep Insects Off of Food While Dining Outdoors

Do you enjoy outdoor dining? Insects love dining on all sorts of picnic goodies, but their efforts can be thwarted with old metal colanders. Cover platters of burgers, hotdogs, salads, fruit and other outdoor fare with large vintage strainers. Store them with other picnic supplies, and you will be prepared to fend off flies, bees and other flying insects that want to share your outdoor meal.

Source: Advanced Crafting Education and Professional Home Decorating Experience